Los Angeles Rams Training Camp 2024 Preview

Los Angeles Rams Training Camp 2024 Preview

The Rams exceeded expectations last year by going 10-7, which includes winning 7 of the last 8 games last year. I, myself, did not see that coming and had them much lower. They ended up losing to the Lions by 1 in the playoffs. While their offense is stout, their defense will determine how well they do. A lot might depend on how well they filled the void left by Aaron Donald on the defense. They did spend 5 of their first 6 picks in this NFL draft on defense, which is reassuring that they are trying to address the defense. The offense should be able to put up points, can the defense hold for another run? Let’s check out some key position battles in Los Angeles in this Rams training camp preview.

Three Position Battles To Watch

RB1: Kyren Williams vs. Blake Corum

Maybe not a battle we might have expected, but a battle to be watched. Is there a considerable chance that this is actually a thing? Who knows? I do know that the Rams did not have to take Blake Corum with Kyren Williams in their backfield and they did. Kyren Williams is a 1,000 yard rusher and had 12 TDs last year in rushing alone. They used a 3rd-round pick on Blake Corum, it would be disingenuous to not at least consider a competition between the two. However, I don’t think it will be like “oh this guy gets all the reps and this guy sits on the bench.” It might be more of how much work does Corum take away from Kyren, if any. If you’re using a 3rd-round pick, you have to expect some production from that player.

FS: Russ Yeast vs. Kamren Kinchens

How much faith do you have in Russ Yeast? That is going to be the vital question for the battle between Yeast and Kamren Kinchens for the starting spot as the FS. Yeast is only a 3rd-year player this year and was a 7th-round pick in his draft. Kinchens was a 3rd-round pick this draft. There’s definitely a scenario where Kinchens comes in as the starter as a rookie this year. This will be a battle between these young guys for that spot.

Inside LBs: Ernest Jones IV vs. Christian Rozeboom vs. Omar Speights vs. Troy Reeder vs. Jacob Hummel

With the Rams running a 3-4, there are two inside linebackers for the defense. There’s usually only 4 inside LBs on a roster, maybe 5 if you’re a versatile LB. There’s a chance that one of these guys gets left off the team in this key position battle for the Rams training camp. It’s more intriguing that only one of these inside LB spots are probably solidified. Ernest Jones IV is the best of the group so I would like to think his spot is safe. But Christian Rozeboom was the starter last year. His spot isn’t safe with young talent and rookies trying to take his spot. We will see who starts next to Ernest Jones IV.

Ready To Breakout: Derion Kendrick

Them Georgia boys ain’t no joke. Even as a 6th round pick his rookie year and as a 2nd year player last year, he has been a bright spot on the Rams defense. While not listed as a starter, I do see him end up becoming the starter this year eventually somewhere on the Rams defense. I think he has too much talent to not start somewhere on that team. He’ll carve out a role like he’s been working on the last two years.

Rookie To Watch: Braden Fiske

One of the best thing to ever have happened to Braden Fiske was the combine. He turned many heads with stellar showing. He jumped into the 2nd round after his showing. He was part of that stout Florida State defense a year ago so he can play. But, after being sought as a late day 2, or day 3 pick, he will have to rise to the occasion of being chosen early in the 2nd round. It will also be worthy to watch where he lines up on the defensive line. He was listed as a DT in the draft. In the Rams 3-4, where will he line up? I don’t think they put him as the NT, or at least not his primary position. He might play that on passing downs. I don’t think he will play on the outside of the tackle either. He will probably remain interior somewhere. I’m not sure, the Rams will have their options on how to use him.

Fantasy Sleeper: Jordan Whittington

Jordan Whittington is something to watch out for in Fantasy. I do think he has a chance to carve out a role on the Rams offense. Defenses will be focused on Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua (now that he’s known to the world). But after that, the WR room is up for grabs. I rather take a late-round flier on Whittington than get Tutu Atwell, Demarcus Robinson, or Tyler Johnson. Whittington is tall and can catch in traffic. He does have some potential as a catch-and-run WR as well. Hell, I’d take a flier on him if need be.

The Rams have to prove that their late-season run wasn’t a fluke. Their offense will score points, but can their defense hold enough to win them games. That’s going to be the question to see how well the Los Angeles Rams do this season.

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